How Long Can Colon Cancer Go Undetected
Posted on June 26, 2025 writen by Jane Paulson in Medical Malpractice
How long can colon cancer go undetected? This is a pressing question many families face after a devastating diagnosis, especially when signs were present but overlooked. At Paulson Coletti, we know how life-altering a delayed diagnosis can be. When colon cancer goes unnoticed due to medical negligence, patients are left with fewer treatment options and more aggressive outcomes. Speaking with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer Portland residents trust can help determine if legal action is warranted.
Call Us (503) 226-6361 Understanding Colon Cancer And Its Early Progression
Colon cancer develops slowly, often beginning as benign polyps on the colon lining. These polyps can gradually transform into malignant tumors over time. The process is typically slow and may take over a decade to reach an advanced stage. Without proactive screening, early changes can go unnoticed.
As a firm, we’ve seen how delays in recognizing early warning signs can cost someone their life. Early detection remains the most powerful tool to prevent complications from colorectal cancer.
Why Colon Cancer Often Goes Undiagnosed For So Long
There are several reasons this disease can remain hidden:
- Symptoms may not appear until the cancer is advanced.
- Early signs can mimic less severe gastrointestinal issues.
- Some physicians may fail to recommend timely screenings.
- Patients under 50 are often not considered high-risk and may be dismissed.
This is especially dangerous when medical providers overlook persistent symptoms or delay ordering colonoscopies. When a diagnosis occurs, treatment options may be more invasive, and the prognosis less favorable.
Early Symptoms That Are Often Overlooked
According to the Mayo Clinic, many individuals with colon cancer show no symptoms in the early stages. But when signs do appear, they may include:
- A change in bowel habits, such as frequent diarrhea or constipation
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Discomfort in the abdominal area, like gas, cramps, or pain
- A feeling of incomplete bowel movements
- Fatigue or general weakness
- Unintentional weight loss
These signs are often mistaken for common digestive conditions like IBS or hemorrhoids, leading doctors to misdiagnose or dismiss the symptoms altogether. When that happens, a critical window for early treatment is lost.
How Long Can Colon Cancer Remain Undetected?
Colon cancer can remain undetected for many years, sometimes even over a decade, due to its slow progression and lack of early symptoms. It typically begins as noncancerous polyps in the colon lining, which can take 10 to 15 years to develop into malignant tumors. Because early-stage colon cancer often causes no noticeable signs, it frequently goes unnoticed without routine screening. Regular screenings like colonoscopies play a vital role in identifying potential issues before they become life-threatening. Unfortunately, even when symptoms do appear, they are often vague and can be mistaken for less severe conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
When doctors fail to act on abnormal test results or patient complaints, the delay can mean the difference between a curable and an incurable diagnosis. In Portland, access to healthcare is not the issue; oversight is.
When Delayed Diagnosis Becomes Medical Malpractice
A delay in diagnosing colon cancer isn’t always malpractice. But if a doctor overlooks repeated symptoms or skips steps like necessary tests, that delay can cross into negligence. Oregon law holds providers accountable when they fail to meet basic medical standards. If a patient suffers because of that, the failure isn’t just poor care; it can become a legal matter.
Potential Consequences Of A Delayed Colon Cancer Diagnosis
According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, many patients experience symptoms of colorectal cancer for up to a year before receiving a formal diagnosis. Despite access to screening, delays remain common and are linked to higher mortality.
A delayed diagnosis can result in:
- Spread of cancer to lymph nodes or other organs
- Increased need for chemotherapy or invasive surgery
- Lower survival rates
- Emotional distress for patients and families
- Greater financial burden due to extended treatment
What To Do If You Suspect Medical Negligence
When colon cancer is diagnosed late, especially after repeated complaints or red flags, it may be more than just bad luck; it could be medical negligence. We closely examine what was missed and when, reviewing test results, appointment notes, and any signs a provider should have caught. Medical experts help us determine if the delay made the diagnosis worse. If your care didn’t feel right, we’ll help you find out why.
Talk To A Portland Medical Malpractice Attorney
At Paulson Coletti, we help families across Portland navigate the emotional and legal challenges that follow a delayed colon cancer diagnosis.
Contact our team today if you believe medical malpractice contributed to a missed or
Paulson Coletti
Trial Attorneys PC
At Paulson Coletti, justice is our mission. As experienced trial attorneys, we fight for injury victims across Oregon and Washington, holding negligent parties accountable. With a proven track record in and out of the courtroom, we are dedicated to securing fair compensation for our clients. We take a client-centered approach, focusing on cases we believe in and delivering results that matter. No fees unless we win—because justice should never come with financial risk.